Jan – Black & White High Key
Images are presented in black and white and feature a high-key tonal range. This means the image should be predominantly bright, with light tones and minimal deep shadows, creating an airy or ethereal feel. While contrast is present, it is typically subtle and delicate. Subject choice, composition, and use of light should all contribute to a visually engaging image that leverages the expressive potential of high-key lighting within the monochrome palette.
Feb – Annual Nature
Aligned with the PSNZ definition, Nature photography records all branches of natural history except anthropology and archaeology. This includes all aspects of the physical world, both animate and inanimate, that have not been made or modified by humans.
Nature images must convey the truth of the scene that was photographed. A well-informed person should be able to identify the subject of the image and be satisfied that it has been presented honestly and that no unethical practices have been used to control the subject or capture the image.
Images that directly or indirectly show any human activity that threatens the life or welfare of a living organism are not allowed.
The most important part of a Nature image is the nature story it tells. High technical standards are expected, and the image must look natural.
Objects created by humans, and evidence of human activity, are allowed in Nature images only when they are a necessary part of the nature story.
Photographs of human-created hybrid plants, cultivated plants, feral animals, domesticated animals, human-created hybrid animals, and mounted or preserved zoological specimens are not allowed.
Images taken with subjects under controlled conditions, such as zoos, are allowed.
Controlling live subjects by chilling, anaesthetic, or any other method of restricting natural movement for the purpose of a photograph is not allowed.
Only scientific names, common names, or descriptive titles shall be used. (Refer to the PSNZ website for more details or ask a committee member.)
Mar – Silhouette
A photographic theme where the primary subject is rendered as a dark shape or outline against a brighter background, typically achieved by backlighting. Detail within the subject is minimal or absent, emphasizing strong shapes, contours, and composition. In a silhouette image, storytelling and mood are conveyed through form, posture, and placement rather than texture or colour. The focus should be on clear subject recognition and creative use of light and contrast to enhance visual impact.
Apr – Vintage Style
A photographic theme that evokes the look, feel, or aesthetic of a past era, typically through subject matter, styling, lighting, and post-processing. Images may feature period-appropriate props, fashion, vehicles, or settings, and often use muted tones, sepia, grain, or faded colours to create a nostalgic atmosphere. The focus should be on capturing the essence of a bygone time, with attention to authenticity, mood, and storytelling that reflects the chosen vintage period.
May – Food and/or Drink
A photographic theme that showcases edible subjects or beverages as the main focus, captured in a way that is visually appealing, creative, and engaging. Images may range from styled still-life setups to candid moments, highlighting texture, colour, form, and presentation. Attention to lighting, composition, and mood is key, whether the aim is to evoke freshness, indulgence, celebration, or everyday simplicity. The image should help the viewer connect with the sensory or cultural experience of food and drink.
Jun – Annual Creative
Let your imagination roam, as anything goes for this category. Consider ICM, HDR, post-processing, composites, abstract work, or whatever you wish, as long as you are the owner of the images. The title and the image should together tell a story.
Jul – Nightscapes
A photographic theme focused on capturing outdoor scenes taken at night, where the mood, atmosphere, and lighting are shaped by natural or artificial light sources such as the moon, stars, streetlights, or illuminated buildings. Subjects can range from urban cityscapes to rural or celestial landscapes, with an emphasis on technical skill in low-light photography, such as long exposures, noise control, and creative light use. The image should convey the unique beauty, stillness, or energy of the nighttime environment.
Aug – Annual Floral
An image showing flowers in their natural state or harvested flowers in a way that celebrates the beauty and characteristics of the flower. The image may depict whole flowers, parts of flowers, or arrangements of flowers where it is clear the subject of the image is the flower.
Sep – Moving Water
A photographic theme that highlights the motion and energy of water in any form, such as rivers, waterfalls, ocean waves, rain, or splashes. The focus is on capturing the dynamic qualities of water in motion, whether using fast shutter speeds to freeze action or long exposures to create smooth, flowing effects. Composition, light, and perspective should work together to convey a sense of movement, mood, and visual interest. The image should celebrate the power, grace, or rhythm of moving water in a creative and technically skilled way.
Cambridge Photography Club 